how well have we earned?
how long, though we try,
have we felt each whisper
and burned through each sigh?
and how many suns set
with life still at bay
with rivers so journeyed
and journeyed away?
what of the fair soldier
not waking to dream?
still there as a trooper
but lost to the seams.
what debt that we owe him
enjoyed in sweet breath
can pleasant him forward
this life to the next?
and then, have we earned
and, oh, have we tried
to feel us each whisper
that burns through each sigh?
written for SSG Chad Arthur Caldwell, k troop 3/3 ACR. May he rest in peace.
(Stepped on an IED while assisting Iraqi Police)
*The title "Earn This" is taken from the movie "Saving Private Ryan".
